Commonly there are four methods for preparing vermicompost. The quality of the end product is the same in all methods however the investment and labour cost varies. In addition, to produce vermicompost manure all 12 months it is essential to have a good shade in the area having the vermicompost pit. The initial investment is the only expenditure that too is earned back within a year and then after it is only harvesting the profits.
[1] Permanent bed method: In this method the bed and shade area both are permanent. The pit/bed is made with absorbing bricks. If the pit size is 30 (l)*4 (b)*1 (h) feet then along with the shade the capital investment would be Rs. 40 thousand. The shade is angle based structure made up of canvas. It is the most expensive method of all the four methods. It is apt for the farmers have big farm acreage.
[2] Artificial bed method: In this method the pit and shade area can be dismantled and shifted to any site as required. It is made using the bamboo logs. In this the pit size is maintained as 12 (l)*4 (b) * 1 (h) feet. The total investment cost incurred is Rs. 5 thousand. Initially for the first time vermicompost producer artificial bed methods is recommended.
[3] Flooring bed method: It can be done anywhere on the farm with only condition that the farmland surface where the composting mixture would be laid must be raised from the ground a little. 30*4 feet size polythene sheet is laid down, the mixture is spread and earthworms are released. All four sides are covered with temporarily stacked bricks. The cost of the polythene sheets is Rs. 500 and shade can be erected at the cost as low as Rs. 300. There are some 4-5 alternatives available for the shade, farmer can select as per his pocket. It is labour intensive method.
[4] Pot method: It is apt for the farmers facing space constraint. In this method instead of vermicompost bed, an earthen pot is used for decomposing the waste into manure. The capital investment includes cost of worms and pot. It is an efficient procedure as earthen pot is ideal for preparing the compost because the worms get complete darkness and the required moisture level is maintained without any hassles. In this system any kind of bio-degradable waste can be used.
Farmers can select any method for preparing the vermicompost. However, a formal training and urge to learn and improve the process is essential to get the desired success.